By MOHAMED FARGHALY | mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas has allocated $40,000 in district initiative
funding to bolster subsidized transportation services for seniors through the
Selfhelp Community Services Northridge/Brulene/Southridge NORC Program. The
funding, presented on June 20 in Jackson Heights, aims to assist older adults who
struggle with the costs of traveling to crucial medical appointments and other
essential care services.

The initiative stems from community feedback received by González-Rojas, where
residents expressed their challenges in affording transportation for necessary
healthcare visits. This financial support is part of the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 New
York State Budget, which allocated $1 million specifically for Naturally Occurring
Retirement Communities (NORC), an advocacy area championed by González-Rojas.

In addition to this targeted funding, the Assembly Member secured $100,000 in
general operating funds for SelfHelp Community Services, underscoring her
commitment to enhancing services for older adults across the state. Her legislative
efforts during the 2024 session also led to the elimination of insulin co-payments for
New Yorkers under state-regulated insurance plans, and initiatives to shield aging
communities from medical debt.

“I am so delighted to bring resources to NORC programs in my district. Aging in
place with grace and dignity is critical to the longevity and vibrancy of our
community,”  Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas said. “As a member of both
the Committee on Health and on Social Services, I recognize the incredible impact
investing in our aging population has on ensuring that our older adults are able to
safely and easily gain access to critical resources to support their independence as
thriving residents of New York. I’m grateful that this year we were able to secure
these funds for important services like these, to strengthen our older adult

population. When we invest in services like these, we are investing in all of our
futures.”

Karen Taylor, Program Director of Selfhelp Northridge/Brulene/Southridge NORC,
expressed gratitude for González-Rojas’ support, highlighting the critical role of
subsidized transportation in ensuring seniors receive necessary medical care.

“The Selfhelp Northridge/Southridge/Brulene NORC thanks Assemblymember
González-Rojas for support," Taylor said. “One of most frequently used services our
NORC provides is subsidized car service to medical appointments. We arrange over
1,000 trips each year to ensure that NORC members get the care they need to stay
healthy and independent. From cancer treatments to cardiology follow-ups, we
ensure that no older adult is forced to skip an essential medical appointment
because of the rising costs related to transportation.”

González-Rojas’ advocacy underscores a broader commitment to supporting aging
populations and enhancing their quality of life through targeted legislative efforts
and community-focused initiatives.